Alright, keeping it short and sweet this week but there are a few things worth noting:
Internet Blacklist Bill: House Edition
A new version of the Internet Blacklist Bill was unveiled Oct. 26 which, if passed, would allow the Department of Justice to block users from accessing certain websites accused of copyright infringement.Techdirt.com is saying this could potentially end up being the "great firewall of America.” Music and video sharing sites like YouTube would surely feel the effects of such a bill if it’s passed, and wouldn't have any say in a trial before removal. Ridiculous.
Don't Hack Me Bro
Not satisfied with The Weather Channel, Chinese hackers are suspected to have tampered with U.S. satellites in 2007 and 2008 for climate control and terrain observation. The satellites in question aren’t dangerous, but the chances of giant lasers beaming down from our own satellites are probably slim to none in the near future. But it's still fun to think about. Businessweek.com cites a report by the U.S. - China Economic and Security Review Commission saying that the hackers interfered with an Earth observation satellite twice; the first time for two minutes in June and the second for nine minutes in October.
Talk Dirty to Me
"The New York Times" is reporting that a dedicated television set released by Apple will be powered, in large part, by Siri. There aren't any firm dates yet but according to the article, we could potentially see an announcement in late 2012 followed by a release in 2013. Voice communication has always been an interesting feature to include with technology, but isn't always perfect and usually becomes more of a novelty than anything else. So while I like the idea of having a siri-powered television, I'd also keep a good ol’ remote nearby.
Image Source: www.truthhunters.co.uk
